faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about On Cloud shoes - from cleaning and sizing to where to buy and product information.
Cleaning
To clean your On Cloud shoes properly:
- Remove laces and insoles – Wash them separately with mild soap
- Use a soft brush or cloth with cold water and mild soap
- Gently clean the upper in circular motions
- For CloudTec pods, use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to remove dirt from the pods
- Rinse with cold water – Remove all soap residue
- Air dry only – Stuff with paper towels and dry at room temperature
No, never wash On Cloud shoes in a washing machine. Machine washing can cause:
- Damage to the CloudTec pods
- Degradation of Helion superfoam
- Separation of glued components
- Loss of structural integrity
- Voided warranty
Always hand wash with cold water and mild soap, then air dry at room temperature.
For white On Cloud shoes, use these methods:
- Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with water or white vinegar to form a paste. Apply to stains, let sit 15 minutes, then gently scrub.
- Mild soap method: Use mild dish soap with warm water and a soft brush.
- Magic eraser: For scuff marks on the midsole, a melamine foam eraser works well.
- Toothbrush technique: Use an old toothbrush to clean the CloudTec pods and textured areas.
Prevention tip: Apply a water-repellent spray designed for sneakers to help keep white shoes cleaner longer.
Sizing & Fit
On Cloud shoes generally fit true to size, but there are model-specific differences:
- Cloud 5/6: True to size, slightly wide-friendly
- Cloudswift series: True to size, narrow through midfoot
- Cloudmonster: Runs slightly large – consider half size down
- Cloudeclipse: True to size, generous toe box
- The Roger Advantage: Runs large – half size down recommended
- Cloud X: True to size, snug performance fit
If you're between sizes or have wide feet, consider sizing up half a size.
Based on thousands of customer reviews:
- ✅ True to size: Cloud 5, Cloud 6, Cloudswift, Cloudeclipse, Cloud X
- ⚠️ Runs large: Cloudmonster (half size down), Roger Advantage (half size down)
Most people find their regular shoe size works well for most On models. If you're between sizes, choose the larger size.
Yes, On offers wide sizing options for select models:
- Cloud 5 – Available in wide widths
- Cloud 6 – Available in wide widths
- Cloudeclipse – Naturally wide-friendly, generous toe box
- Cloudrunner 2 – Wide options available
Wide sizes are typically labeled as "Wide" in the product options. For models without wide sizing, people with wide feet often size up half a size.
Where to Buy
On Cloud shoes are available at these retailers:
- Amazon – Fast shipping, Prime eligible, easy returns
- On Running Official Website – Full collection, latest releases
- REI – In-store try-ons, member dividends
- Dick's Sporting Goods – Wide selection, physical locations
- Zappos – Free shipping and 365-day returns
- Fleet Feet – Expert fitting advice
- Nordstrom – Select styles available
- DSW – Select styles available
For USA buyers, Amazon offers the fastest delivery and easiest return policy.
Major retailers carrying On Cloud shoes include:
- National Chains: REI, Dick's Sporting Goods, Nordstrom, DSW
- Online: Amazon, Zappos, OnRunning.com
- Specialty Running Stores: Fleet Feet, Road Runner Sports, local running shops
- Athletic Stores: Foot Locker (select locations), Finish Line
Availability varies by model and location. Call ahead to check stock.
To find local stores selling On Cloud shoes:
- Use the On Running store locator on their official website
- Check REI locations – Most REI stores carry On shoes
- Visit Dick's Sporting Goods – Many locations have On in stock
- Search for specialty running stores in your area
- Call ahead to verify inventory before visiting
If no local stores carry On shoes, Amazon offers free returns, making it easy to try at home.
Product Information
Yes, On Cloud shoes are excellent for running. The brand was founded by former professional athlete Olivier Bernhard specifically for running.
Best On shoes for running by type:
- Cloudmonster: Max cushioning for long distances, recovery runs
- Cloudswift: Urban running, city streets, pavement
- Cloudflow: Speed work, tempo runs, racing
- Cloud X: Gym workouts, cross-training, short runs
- Cloudeclipse: Ultra-long distances, maximum protection
- Cloudrunner 2: Daily training, stability
Yes, On Cloud shoes are very popular for walking. Many users report they're comfortable for 10,000+ steps daily.
Best On shoes for walking:
- Cloud 5: Lightweight, versatile, all-day comfort
- Cloud 6: Updated version with 100% recycled upper
- Cloudmonster: Maximum cushioning for longer walks
- Cloudeclipse: Plush comfort for extended walking
The Cloud 5 and Cloud 6 are particularly favored for travel and all-day wear due to their lightweight design and responsive cushioning.
On Cloud shoes can be good for plantar fasciitis, especially models with:
- Maximum cushioning – Cloudmonster, Cloudeclipse
- Good arch support – Cloudrunner 2, Cloudswift
- Removable insoles – All models allow for custom orthotics
Features that help with plantar fasciitis:
- CloudTec pods absorb shock on heel strike
- Helion superfoam provides responsive cushioning
- Removable insoles accommodate orthotics
Choose based on your primary use:
- Everyday wear / Walking: Cloud 5 or Cloud 6
- Maximum cushioning: Cloudmonster or Cloudeclipse
- Road running: Cloudswift or Cloudrunner 2
- Speed work / Racing: Cloudflow
- Gym / Cross-training: Cloud X
- Casual style: The Roger Advantage
- All-weather: Cloud 5 Waterproof
- Wide feet: Cloud 5 Wide or Cloudeclipse
If possible, try multiple models at a store to find your perfect fit.
On Cloud shoes are designed in Zurich, Switzerland and manufactured in Vietnam and other countries under strict Swiss quality control.
The manufacturing process includes:
- Swiss engineering and design
- Production in Vietnam and other Asian countries
- Rigorous quality testing
- Final inspection before shipping
Regardless of manufacturing location, all On shoes must meet Swiss quality standards.
On was founded in 2010 by three Swiss partners:
- Olivier Bernhard – Former professional athlete, 3-time World Duathlon Champion
- David Allemann – Design and branding expert
- Caspar Coppetti – Marketing and business strategist
Roger Federer joined as an investor, partner, and co-designer in 2019. He collaborated on "The Roger" collection and helped expand the brand's global presence.
The company is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker ONON.
For running: 300-400 miles (about 4-6 months for regular runners)
For walking/casual wear: 1-2 years depending on usage frequency and terrain
Signs it's time to replace:
- Reduced cushioning and responsiveness
- Visible wear on CloudTec pods
- Worn outsole tread
- Discomfort during use
- Upper material damage
Heavier runners may need to replace sooner; lighter runners may get more mileage.
Some On Cloud models are waterproof, but not all.
- Cloud 5 Waterproof: Features an advanced waterproof membrane, fully waterproof
- Standard On shoes: Water-resistant but not waterproof – can handle light rain but not puddles
- Mesh upper models: Breathable but allow water in
If you need waterproof shoes for rainy climates, choose the Cloud 5 Waterproof or apply a water-repellent spray to standard models.
On Cloud shoes provide good traction on dry surfaces, but they're not specifically designed as slip-resistant work shoes.
- Cloudswift: Enhanced traction for wet city streets
- Standard models: Rubber outsoles with good grip on dry pavement
- On smooth/wet surfaces: Can be slippery, use caution
For industrial workplaces requiring certified slip resistance, look for shoes specifically rated for that purpose.
Some users report occasional squeaking from On Cloud shoes, particularly:
- When new: Usually resolves after break-in period
- On smooth floors: Tile, hardwood, gym floors
- Debris in pods: Small rocks can get trapped in CloudTec pods
Solutions if your On shoes squeak:
- Remove debris from CloudTec pods
- Check if insoles are properly seated
- Break them in with regular wear
- Apply small amount of baby powder under insole
If squeaking persists after break-in, contact On customer service.
Warning signs of counterfeit On shoes:
- Price too good to be true: Authentic On shoes rarely below $120
- Poor quality materials: Cheap-feeling fabrics, bad stitching
- Inconsistent logo: Wrong font, size, or placement
- Misspelled branding: "On Running" spelled incorrectly
- Incorrect CloudTec pods: Wrong shape, size, or pattern
- No box or generic box: Authentic shoes come in branded box
- Selling on unauthorized platforms: Social media, sketchy websites
Buy only from authorized retailers like Amazon, REI, Dick's, or the official On website.
Based on customer reviews and expert testing:
- Cloudmonster: Maximum cushioning, bouncy feel – best for long days on feet
- Cloudeclipse: Dual-layer CloudTec, plush comfort – ultra-soft
- Cloud 5: Versatile all-day comfort – most popular for walking
- Cloud 6: Updated sock-like fit – great for everyday wear
Comfort is subjective and depends on your foot shape, arch type, and intended use. Try multiple models if possible.
Yes, On Cloud shoes are generally worth the investment for most people.
Pros:
- Swiss-engineered quality
- Unique CloudTec cushioning technology
- Lightweight and responsive
- Durable construction (300-400 miles for running)
- Versatile for running, walking, and casual wear
- Distinctive, modern design
Price range: $140-$200, comparable to other premium athletic shoes (Nike, Adidas Ultraboost, Hoka).
Consider if: You value comfort, unique design, and Swiss engineering. For budget-conscious buyers, there are more affordable alternatives.